Today on the show I’m chatting with Azora Zoe Paknad, the Founder of Goldune - and yes I love the name.
We’re talking in depth about her launch and the brands she’s on the lookout for at the moment - hint: it could be you.
Goldune is a new ecommerce retailer making sustainability less beige. Get everything you need for home and life, always sustainable-- but never granola.
Azora emphasizes the importance of personal well-being in the pursuit of success. “In order to be successful, I have to be well,” she shares, highlighting the need for balance in an often chaotic entrepreneurial landscape. She also adds, “I think everyone needs a therapist, but we also might need business therapists too.” This isn’t just about getting through the day; it’s about thriving as a businesswoman and a person.
The Winding Path of Growth
In our conversation, Azora candidly discusses the reality of entrepreneurship. “Growth is not necessarily linear. It’s kind of a winding path.” Isn’t that the truth? Each day brings its own challenges, and sometimes, you just have to fall on your face and get back up again. It’s all part of the hustle, and Azora knows that all too well.
She reflects on the common adage, “Build it and they will come,” and says it’s simply not true in the startup world. “They don’t come. You have to really hustle.” But let’s not glorify the hustle too much. It can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance work and personal life while pushing yourself and your team to the limit.
Advice for Aspiring Female Founders
For those women out there with big dreams and just starting out, Azora has some golden advice: find your support system. “If you’re a solo founder, finding a safe place to have conversations, vent, receive feedback, and encouragement is key,” she suggests. Whether that’s through an executive coach, a therapist, or a supportive network, having a space where you feel uplifted is crucial.
Entrepreneurship is a long and winding road, and it’s more of a marathon than a sprint. Having a coach or co-founder can make all the difference, allowing you to lean on each other during tough times. Azora wisely points out that it’s hard to be your own mental health gatekeeper while also supporting everyone else in your life.
Embracing the Journey
As we wrap up our chat, Azora leaves us with a powerful reminder: the entrepreneurial journey is not for the faint of heart, but with resilience, a solid support system, and a passion for what you do, it can be incredibly rewarding. So, if you’re thinking about starting a business or just need a boost of motivation, take a page from Azora’s book and embrace the hustle with a side of self-care.
Who knows? The next big sustainable brand could be yours!
